Look at the record, not the rhetoric

Mary Peltola has described herself as a Democrat who supports Alaska resource development. One relevant part of her record is how she handled Alaska's Right to Produce Act, H.R. 6285.

Peltola was an original cosponsor when the bill was introduced in November 2023. The legislation sought to reinstate oil and gas leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and to overturn Biden administration restrictions on oil and gas development in the NPR-A.

But shortly before the House voted on the legislation in May 2024, Peltola launched a campaign against her own bill. According to E&E News, Peltola circulated a Dear Colleague letter to her fellow Democrats urging them to vote against the bill. Peltola said it was because the bill contained language affecting conservation areas near Nome. 

When H.R. 6285 came up for final passage on May 1, 2024, Peltola did not vote either yes or no. She voted “present.” Peltola was the only Democrat recorded as “present.”

Alaskans can reasonably ask whether a candidate's campaign claims match their legislative record. Before you vote this November, look up House Roll Call 174 from May 1, 2024, and decide for yourself.

Peggy Ann McConnoche

Juneau